“the importance of freight rail to my community’s future.”

“The ‘Friends of BNSF’ site was created to provide a place where people interested in rail, BNSF and its predecessor railroads could access entertaining, educational and historic information about the industry,” said John Ambler, BNSF vice president, Corporate Relations. “We knew there were many people with an interest in this type of content, but we have been very impressed by the response we have received in the website’s first year. We look forward to seeing more of that enthusiasm in this essay challenge.”

Entrants are asked to submit an essay between 100 and 300 words in length discussing “the importance of freight rail to my community’s future.” The contest is open to United States residents age 18 or older who are new and existing members of ‘Friends of BNSF.’ New members simply have to join in order to enter the contest.

The top five essays will be posted on the ‘Friends of BNSF’ site and the top five winners will be awarded BNSF model locomotives. The first place winner will receive a solid BNSF pewter locomotive model. In addition, all qualifying entrants will receive a copy of the 2013 BNSF photo calendar, filled with train photographs taken by BNSF employees.

For full details and contest rules, go to https://www.friendsofbnsf.com. Entries must be received no later than midnight on Monday, Sept. 24. The first, second and third place winners will be announced no later than Oct. 1.

About ‘Friends of BNSF’

‘Friends of BNSF’ is an online community for anyone who has ties to BNSF or a strong interest in the company and the rail industry. Membership is free, but visitors are required to provide a valid e-mail address in order to join the site. The site is continuously updated with new content including company news and treasures from the company’s extensive historical archives. Visit www.friendsofbnsf.com to join and spread the word to your family, friends and neighbors!

About BNSF

BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,000 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain, industrial goods and low-sulfur coal that help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. And we are working continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at http://www.BNSF.com.